Gardein Chick'n Tenders, Plant-Based, Ultimate
Why It Scored This Way
A mixed nutrition profile and more processed formulation give this product some useful qualities, but also meaningful limitations.
- Protein
- Saturated Fat
- Sodium
- Fiber
Verdict
Gardein Chick'n Tenders, Plant-Based, Ultimate are breaded and fried-style meat alternatives. Their main strength is a high protein content, while their main tradeoff is significant sodium levels. Overall, they serve as a convenient plant-based alternative for those seeking a familiar comfort-food texture.
How to Use This
Best included occasionally, a few times per month, within a balanced diet and in controlled portions. Pair them with a side of steamed broccoli and a dip of vegan honey mustard for a complete meal.
Nutrition Overview
The profile is defined by a strong protein contribution balanced against high sodium. Saturated fat remains low, though fiber is minimal for a plant-based product.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 230 | Per serving |
| Total Fat | 10g | 13% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | — |
| Sodium | 630mg | 27% |
| Total Carbs | 19g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 2% |
| Total Sugars | 1g | — |
| Added Sugars | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 15g | — |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 0mg | 0% |
| Iron | 2.4mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 0mg | 0% |
Ingredient Analysis
The base is built from wheat flour, vital wheat gluten, and soy and pea proteins. The formulation is heavily processed, utilizing a variety of starches, gums, and artificial colors like titanium dioxide to achieve its specific texture and appearance.
Ingredients
Water, Enriched Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Vital Wheat Gluten, Canola Oil, Soy Protein Isolate, Pea Protein Concentrate, Tapioca Starch, 2% or Less of: Degerminated Yellow Corn Flour, Textured Wheat Protein (Wheat Gluten, Wheat Starch), Methylcellulose, Salt, Yeast Extract, Natural Flavors, Garlic Powder, Spices, Dried Onion, Fructose, Leavening (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate), Paprika Extractives (Color), Pea Protein, Onion Powder, Citric Acid, Titanium Dioxide (Color), Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Sunflower Oil.
